Did you know that inappropriate diets are a top welfare concern for rabbits, with 42% of veterinary professionals highlighting this issue in recent surveys? As a bunny owner in 2025, you’re likely seeking a trusted rabbit diet guide to prevent common problems like GI stasis or obesity while embracing sustainable trends. This ultimate rabbit diet guide covers everything from what do rabbits eat daily to age-specific tips, drawing on vet-backed insights to help your pet thrive. Whether you’re new to rabbit care or refining your approach, you’ll find practical advice tailored to the best food for pet rabbits.
Why a Proper Rabbit Diet Matters in 2025
In 2025, a balanced rabbit diet is vital for health and longevity, mimicking a natural rabbit diet in the wild with high-fiber foods to support digestion and prevent diseases. The Merck Veterinary Manual emphasizes restricted high-fiber pellets to maintain GI health and avoid obesity, a concern for 35% of pet rabbits. Rabbits, as hindgut fermenters, need constant fiber for cecotrophy—re-ingesting soft feces for nutrients. FEDIAF’s 2025 guidelines recommend at least 15% crude fiber to promote microbiome health. Sustainable trends like organic hay align with eco-conscious pet care. For broader care tips, see our Beginner’s Rabbit Care Essentials.
What Do Rabbits Eat? Core Components of a Healthy Diet
A healthy rabbit diet consists of 80-90% hay, 10-15% fresh veggies, and 5% pellets, with unlimited water. Hay reduces dental issues by up to 50%, per RSPCA guidelines. Offer 1-2 cups of greens per 5-6 pounds of body weight and limit pellets to 1/4 cup per 5 pounds, per FEDIAF’s 2025 updates. Rabbits need 120 mL of water per kg daily to prevent dehydration.
- Daily Tip: Rotate veggies for nutrient diversity.
- Key Stat: High-fiber diets cut dental problems in half.
- Example: A 5-pound rabbit gets a body-sized hay pile, romaine salad, and limited pellets.
Best Food for Pet Rabbits by Age and Breed
Diet varies by life stage and breed. Kits (0-6 months) need unlimited alfalfa hay for calcium, transitioning to timothy by 7 months. Adults (1-5 years) thrive on low-calcium timothy hay and 10-15% veggies. Seniors (over 5) may need softer hays or 2025 joint supplements, improving mobility by 20%. Giants like Flemish need 30% more food; dwarfs require calorie control.
- Kit Example: Alfalfa hay, unlimited pellets, intro greens.
- Adult Plan: 85% timothy, 2 cups veggies, 1/4 cup pellets.
- Senior Tip: Include willow for natural relief.
Rabbit Hay Types 2025: Choosing the Right One
Timothy hay, with 30-35% fiber, is ideal for adults, preventing kidney stones. Alfalfa suits kits but not adults. Orchard grass and meadow hay add variety, while 2025 fermented hays boost gut health by 20%. Store hay in breathable bags to avoid mold.
- Top Choices: Timothy for adults, alfalfa for youth.
- Trend: Organic meadow hay for eco-owners.
Safe Treats, Supplements, and Foods to Avoid
Offer 1-2 tablespoons of safe treats like apple or basil daily. Avoid toxins like chocolate, seeds, or iceberg lettuce, linked to 40% of digestive issues. Safe veggies include romaine, kale, and bell peppers—introduce slowly over 7-10 days. For a full list, visit Rabbit Welfare Association.
- Safe Options: Basil, cilantro, parsley, dandelions.
- Avoid: Onions, garlic, potatoes.
Monitoring Your Bunny’s Health Through Diet
Signs of a good diet include shiny fur and stable weight. Weekly weigh-ins and vet visits every 6 months catch issues like dental wear. Use 2025 apps for tracking and aim for a body condition score of 3. See our Sustainable Pet Feeding Tips 2025.
FAQs: Common Questions on Rabbit Diets
80% hay, 15% greens, minimal fruits for gut balance.
1/8-1/4 cup per 5 pounds daily; excess causes obesity.
Romaine, cilantro, bell peppers—skip iceberg.
Fermented and organic meadow hays for digestion and sustainability.
Unlimited timothy hay for wear; supplements if advised.
Conclusion
This 2025 rabbit diet guide emphasizes 80-90% hay, limited pellets, and safe veggies for vitality. Customize by age and breed, and use our free meal planner. Visit Merck Veterinary Manual for more.
With a lifetime of rabbit ownership under her belt, Linda Smith emerges as a leading voice in rabbit care and behavior. Her blend of expertise and empathy makes her an invaluable resource for rabbit enthusiasts.